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Head injury on school playgrounds

Playgrounds should be a safe environment where children can enjoy outdoor activities and social interaction. However, accidents in school playgrounds can and do occur, often resulting in serious injuries. One of the most concerning outcomes is a head injury, which may happen due to faulty equipment, inadequate maintenance, or a lack of proper supervision. At Stephensons, we understand the distress and disruption that a head injury can cause to both the child and their family, and we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

 

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What is a head injury on a school playground?

A head injury on a school playground refers to any trauma sustained to a child's head while they are within the school grounds, typically during play or physical activity. These injuries can range from mild concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries. Common causes include equipment failure, such as broken climbing frames or damaged slides, poorly maintained surfaces that increase the risk of falls, and inadequate supervision by school staff leading to unsafe behaviour going unchecked. In cases where these injuries result from negligence, parents or guardians may be entitled to make a personal injury claim on behalf of their child.

Can you claim compensation for a head injury on a school playground?

Yes, if a head injury occurs due to the negligence of the school, the local authority, or any third-party responsible for maintaining the premises or supervising the children, you may be eligible to pursue compensation. Claims can arise in instances such as:

  • Failure to maintain or repair playground equipment
  • Lack of supervision by teaching or support staff
  • Unsafe or unsuitable playground surfaces
  • Improper installation of play structures

To make a successful claim, it must be shown that a duty of care was breached and that this breach directly led to the injury. Compensation can help cover the costs of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any ongoing care needs, as well as compensate for pain and suffering and the impact on the child’s education and well-being.

Why choose Stephensons?

Stephensons is an award-winning national law firm, recognised for its commitment to excellence in legal practice. Our personal injury solicitors are specialists in child injury claims and are highly experienced in pursuing cases involving schools and educational settings. We are accredited by The Law Society and hold a Lexcel quality mark for excellence in legal practice management and client care. Our solicitors are also members of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), demonstrating our commitment to the highest standards of client representation in injury claims.

In addition, we also hold a Legal 500 ranking, reflecting our reputation for providing trustworthy and high quality legal services.

We understand that dealing with an injury to your child is incredibly stressful, especially when it was entirely preventable. Our team takes a sensitive and thorough approach, ensuring that each case is handled with the utmost care while striving for the best possible outcome. We also provide a no win, no fee service in most cases, alleviating additional financial strain during what can be a difficult time for families.

How we can help

At Stephensons, we will guide you through the entire claims process, from your initial enquiry through to resolution. Our team will:

  • Assess the circumstances of the incident and advise on the strength of your claim
  • Gather evidence including incident reports, witness statements and medical assessments
  • Engage expert witnesses where necessary
  • Negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement or represent you in court if required

We always aim to secure compensation that reflects the full extent of the injury, impact on quality of life, and any future implications for the child’s health and development.

Contact us

If your child has suffered a head injury on a school playground and you believe it was due to equipment failure or poor supervision, we encourage you to speak to a member of our specialist team. Call us today on 0161 696 6235 or fill in our enquiry form to request a call back at a time that suits you. Our friendly and knowledgeable team are here to help you find the support and justice you deserve.

FAQs about head injury claims on school playgrounds

How long do I have to make a claim?

Generally, claims involving children must be made before the child turns 18. After that, the individual then has three years (until age 21) to make a claim themselves. However, it’s advisable to act as soon as possible to ensure evidence is preserved and witness recollections remain accurate.

What evidence do I need for a claim?

Useful evidence includes accident reports from the school, photographs of the playground and equipment, medical records, CCTV footage (if available), and witness statements from teachers or other children present at the time of the incident.

Will I need to attend court?

Most personal injury claims are resolved through negotiation and do not require a court hearing. However, if liability is disputed or a fair settlement cannot be agreed, court proceedings may be necessary. If liability is not in dispute in many cases the court will only become involved to approve a settlement.

Our team will support you every step of the way if this becomes the case.

How much compensation can I claim?

The amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injury, the impact on the child’s day-to-day life, and any long-term effects. It may include general damages for pain and suffering and special damages for things like medical expenses and travel costs.

Can I get legal aid for this type of claim?

Legal aid is not typically available for personal injury claims. However, Stephensons offers no win, no fee arrangements in most cases, which means there will be no upfront cost to start your claim.

For expert advice tailored to your circumstances, contact Stephensons on 0161 696 6235 today or fill in our enquiry form to request a callback.

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